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The New York Knicks closed out the season on a high note, but a string of injuries stood in their way to the Eastern Conference Finals.
Now, they didn’t wait long to make the first big move of the offseason, making sure to keep their title window open.
They traded for Mikal Bridges, one of the most durable players in the league, not to mention an outstanding defender and a guy who’s proven that he can also get his buckets if need be.
On top of that, they reunited with him with the rest of the Villanova fellowship, teaming him up with Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo.
Recently, Knicks insider Ian Begley revealed that this was a move the Knicks had been wanting to make for quite a while, and the timing was just perfect.
Mikal Bridges’ side made it clear to Nets he wanted to be a Knick. But Nets didn’t have to trade him. Knicks made an offer BKN couldn’t refuse. More on that, why Isaiah Hartenstein is unlikely to be back & what it means for OG Anunoby & more here: pic.twitter.com/Zu5uMmeAFd
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) June 26, 2024
Apparently, Bridges told the Nets he wanted to be a Knick, and he was reportedly ready to force his way across town, whether it was now with a trade, or letting any potential team that traded for him know that he would eventually sign with the Knicks.
Bridges had two years left in his contract, so the Knicks made sure to make the Nets an offer that they couldn’t refuse to give them an incentive to let him go.
Now, the Nets have replenished their draft capital, and while things may not go well for a year or two, they have more than enough assets to compete in the future.
As for the Knicks, Begley reports that this move still allows them to give OG Anunoby the kind of deal he’s looking for, but Isaiah Hartenstein might be on his way out.
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